Jack Schlossberg, grandson of former United States President John F Kennedy, has declared his intention to run for Congress, seeking to represent New York’s 12th District in the House of Representatives. His announcement on Tuesday comes as veteran Democrat Jerry Nadler prepares to step down after more than three decades in office.
In a campaign video released on social media, Schlossberg emphasised the need for fresh leadership in the district, which encompasses Manhattan’s Upper West Side, Upper East Side and midtown.
“This district should have a representative who can harness the creativity, energy and drive of this district and translate that into political power in Washington,” he said.
The 31-year-old Democrat followed the video with an email to supporters confirming that his campaign would formally launch on Wednesday. Schlossberg has built a considerable following online, frequently commenting on national issues and engaging in political debate. His posts have occasionally targeted members of his own extended family, including his mother’s cousin, health secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr.
Last month, Schlossberg attracted attention with a satirical Instagram post featuring a Halloween costume labelled “MAHA Man”, a reference to Kennedy’s “Make America Healthy Again” slogan. The costume was described as including measles, a pointed critique of Kennedy’s controversial positions on public health.
Nadler, currently serving his 17th term in Congress, announced in September that he would not seek re-election. Speaking to the New York Times, he suggested that a younger Democrat might be better placed to serve the district. “Can maybe do better, can maybe help us more,” Nadler remarked, signalling his support for generational change.
Schlossberg, a political commentator and writer whose work has appeared in publications such as The Washington Post, Politico and Time magazine, enters a crowded field of contenders already vying for the seat. His candidacy is expected to draw significant attention, not only because of his family name but also due to his outspoken presence in public discourse.
The timing of his decision is notable, as Democrats are seeking to regain control of the House in the 2026 midterm elections. With Republicans currently holding the majority under President Donald Trump, the party is eager to reclaim legislative influence. Schlossberg underscored this urgency in remarks to the New York Times. “There is nothing our party can’t do to address costs of living, corruption and the constitutional crisis that we’re in,” he said. “But without the control of Congress, there’s almost nothing that we can do.”
His entry into electoral politics coincides with the rise of other younger figures in New York. Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old state assemblyman, was elected mayor of New York City last week, marking a significant generational shift in the city’s leadership. Schlossberg acknowledged the parallel, telling the Times: “If Zohran Mamdani and I have anything in common, it’s that we are both trying to be authentic versions of ourselves and meet people where they are and communicate with people in New York City and be present and show up for people.”
Observers note that Schlossberg’s campaign will test whether his Kennedy lineage, combined with his own political voice, can resonate with voters in a district long represented by Nadler. While his family name carries historical weight, Schlossberg has sought to establish himself independently, using social media and published commentary to articulate his views on contemporary issues.
The 12th District, a diverse and politically active area of Manhattan, has long been a Democratic stronghold. Whoever secures the nomination is expected to play a prominent role in shaping the party’s strategy in the midterm elections.
As Schlossberg embarks on his campaign, he faces the challenge of distinguishing himself in a competitive field while addressing pressing concerns such as housing, healthcare, and the cost of living. His candidacy represents both continuity with a storied political legacy and the potential for a new generation of Democratic leadership in New York.
